Mr. Carson said he grew up a Democrat but switched his party affiliation to Republican in the 1980s after listening to Ronald Reagan.
Mr. Carson said he switched to being an independent about 15 to 20 years ago after getting a “sour taste” watching Republicans who had their own personal foibles impeach President Clinton over an extramarital affair. “I just saw so much hypocrisy in both parties,” he explained.
Mr. Carson said it made sense to make his party switch now, well before he decides next spring whether to run for the White House.
http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2014/nov/4/ben-carson-officially-switches-parties-returns-gop/
since he didn't have a chance in hell against the democrats, but saw how easily the republicans could be run over.
How do those on FR think Trump should handle Carson at this point in time.
Here are my suggestions:
1.Bide his time and don’t criticize Carson on his strong points, such as character, religion, personal convictions and his medical achievements
2.If/when he criticizes Carson, go after his weaknesses, lack of record, is he up to dealing with all that is going on outside of the US and does Carson have what it takes to clean up after Obama and make America great again
3.avoid talking much about Carson, so he doesn’t get in the way of Carson dealing with the increased scrutiny of being a front runner. Trump doesn’t want to be the story
4.Decide if he wants to put in a big effort to try and win Iowa or make sure he finishes a strong 2nd. Religion is a big issue in Iowa and Carson has the edge over Trump on this. Definitely don’t attack his faith, except for maybe the “pacifist” aspect of it.
5.Trump has become a much better campaigner, make sure that is on full display in the debate. Compliment Carson on his campaign success. Make the point over and over that both of their success is due to peoples frustration and disgust with Washington and the political establishment
6.Try to get Carson to restate his immigration policy and get more specific on his solutions. Carson is soft here.
Even though I don’t support Carson, he is a great human being, overcame great odds and the world could sure use more people like him.